At that moment, Daisy decided: enough waiting.
Without hesitation, she rose on her toes and pressed her lips to his.
For a breathless second, he was still.
Then he leaned in, his tongue grazing her lip, his hand cradling her cheek, the other tangling in her damp hair. Unsure of her own limbs, Daisy wrapped her arms around his waist, pulling him closer. Their mouths moved slowly, cautiously learning.
After countless minutes of discovery and tender kisses, they pulled back. Breathing heavy, they both stared at one another.
“What was that?”
Instead of answering, Daisy smirked. “You know what song comes to mind?”
His eyes narrowed playfully. “What song?”
“‘We Belong.’”
It took him a moment before he replied, “Pat Benatar?”
She nodded. “Nicely done.”
He chuckled. “Impressed. I think that’s wildly appropriate.”
“Thank you. Honestly, I might be better at this game than you.”
“Let’s not get cocky. I’d say we’re tied.”
“For now.” She laughed.
His gaze softened, lingering. Finally, he sighed. “We should get back before anyone gets suspicious.”
“One more thing.”
She kissed him again, firmer this time. Their bodies flushed together, the chlorine-mint taste sinking into her memory.
Slowly pulling back, she said, “Okay, now we can go.”
That night, Daisy tossed and turned, replaying every second in her mother’s garden. They had crossed a line, and there was no going back.
Later, her phone lit up.
Jameson: Hey, darlin’… are you awake?
Her heart fluttered.
Daisy: Hi. Yes. Can’t sleep.
Jameson: Same. Can’t stop thinking about that kiss.
Daisy: Me too. How did I do?
She immediately regretted the question, chewing her nail until his reply came.
Jameson: Not bad for your first time. But you could use some practice. I’m free for lessons anytime.
She laughed out loud.
Daisy: I bet you are, Band Boy. Tomorrow night? My studio?
